Hey, cocktail aficionados! Fall is here, and you know what that means – it's time to cozy up with some smooth cocktails that'll put a warm, spicy spin on your evenings. Whether you're at home or hitting up the hottest bars and restaurants in the Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland area, we've got all you need to know about the best sips to keep you feeling right all season long.
1. Old Fashioned
Glass: Rocks glass
Ingredients:
2 oz Bourbon (e.g., Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace)
1 sugar cube
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel
Ice cubes
Directions:
Drop the sugar cube into the glass, add bitters, and a splash of water.
Muddle the sugar and bitters together until dissolved.
Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour bourbon over.
Stir gently and garnish with an orange peel twist.
2. Whiskey Sour
Glass: Rocks glass
Ingredients:
2 oz Whiskey (e.g., Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve)
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice cubes
Directions:
Combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a lemon slice or cherry.
3. Hot Toddy
Glass: Heat-resistant glass or mug
Ingredients:
2 oz Bourbon (e.g., Bulleit, Evan Williams)
1 tbsp honey
1/4 lemon, juiced
1 cup hot water
Cinnamon stick (optional)
Cloves (optional)
Directions:
Combine bourbon, honey, and lemon juice in the glass.
Add hot water and stir until honey is dissolved.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and cloves for extra warmth.
Bars and Restaurants in the DC, Virginia, Maryland Area
Jack Rose Dining Saloon - Washington, DC
Known for an extensive bourbon collection and creative cocktails.
Bourbon Steak - Arlington, Virginia
A classy spot with a strong emphasis on, you guessed it, bourbon.
Wet Dog Tavern - Washington, DC
Offers a cozy atmosphere and a selection of whiskey-based drinks.
The Whiskey Jar - Charlottesville, Virginia
Specializes in a wide variety of whiskeys and whiskey cocktails.
The James Joyce Irish Pub & Restaurant - Baltimore, Maryland
Features an impressive whiskey list and traditional Irish whiskey cocktails.
Barrel & Bushel - Tysons Corner, Virginia
A great place for craft bourbon and whiskey cocktails.
Remember to always drink responsibly, and if you're going to these spots, consider using a designated driver or a ride-sharing service.
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